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Choosing the right level of care for yourself or a loved one can be challenging, especially when the options sound so similar. If you’ve been researching different care options, you might be confused about the differences between skilled nursing vs nursing home care, and which is right for your situation. In this guide, we’ll explain these two types of care and give you the information you need to make the best decision based on health needs, recovery goals, and budget.
| Skilled Nursing Facility | Nursing Home | |
| Care Setting | Clinical-level care in a community-like environment | Residential, more homelike atmosphere, less emphasis on advanced medical care |
| Cost | Typically a higher daily cost | Typically a lower daily cost |
| Services/Level of Care | High-level medical care (may include rehab, wound care, IVs, etc.) | Custodial care (help with bathing, eating, dressing, etc.) and administering medication |
| Payment Options | May include Medicare (short-term), Medicaid, private insurance, VA benefits, and more | Typically Medicaid (if eligible), long-term care insurance, private pay |
| Best For | Patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury | Those needing daily assistance due to aging or chronic conditions |
| Length of Stay | Short-term or long-term | Long-term or permanent |
| Staffing | Licensed nurses, therapists, medical professionals | Care aides, some nursing staff |
| Discharge Goals | Rehabilitation and return home | Long-term support and comfort |
Care Setting
Skilled nursing care is typically provided in a clinical setting. These facilities are licensed to provide short-term rehabilitation or longer-term care and medically necessary services prescribed by a doctor. Though they focus strongly on medical care, skilled nursing facilities can also feel like communities, often with group meals and fun activities and events for patients.
While some nursing homes also provide skilled nursing care, they may not offer the types of rehabilitative services or advanced care you’d find in a dedicated skilled nursing facility. Nursing homes focus on providing a residential, long-term living environment for individuals who need ongoing assistance with daily activities.
Cost
Because skilled nursing facilities offer intensive medical care, they tend to be more expensive on a daily basis. Prices vary depending on the facility, the length of the patient’s stay, and the medical services required.
While still costly, nursing homes tend to be less expensive than skilled nursing care on a per-day basis, especially for long-term stays. However, because care is extended over months or years, the total cost can still be significant.
Level of Care and Services Provided
Skilled nursing facilities provide high-level medical care, though the exact services provided can differ between facilities. Some offer specialized care such as:
Services are delivered by registered nurses, physical therapists, and other licensed professionals.
Nursing homes tend to focus more on supporting residents with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility. Some medical services may be available, but they are not usually as comprehensive as in a skilled nursing facility.
Payment Options
Medicare may cover short-term stays in skilled nursing facilities if certain conditions are met (e.g., hospitalization prior to admission, medical necessity). Medicaid and private insurance may also provide coverage, depending on eligibility, and some facilities also accept VA benefits or other payment methods.
Medicare typically does not cover long-term stays in nursing homes. For those who qualify, payment is often made through Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or private pay. Insurance, government support, and eligibility can be difficult to navigate – make sure you’re very clear on the facility’s payment options and your Medicare/Medicaid eligibility.
Who They’re Designed For
Skilled nursing facilities are best suited for patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury who need temporary medical care and rehabilitation before returning home or transitioning to a lower level of care.
On the other hand, nursing homes may be more suitable for elderly individuals who need assistance with daily living over an extended period, and who may not be able to live independently due to physical or cognitive decline.
Whether you’re choosing between skilled nursing vs nursing home care for yourself or helping a loved one through the decision, here’s how to figure out which option makes the most sense.
Consider Your (or Your Loved One’s) Medical Needs
If the person needing care requires daily medical treatment, such as physical therapy, wound care, or IV medication, then a skilled nursing facility is likely the better fit. These facilities are designed for short-term, medically intensive care and are often part of a recovery plan following hospitalization.
If you or your loved one simply needs help with daily activities like bathing, eating, or getting dressed, but not complex medical treatment, a nursing home may be more suitable.
Factor in Insurance and Finances
Establishing how you will pay for care is one of the most important decisions to make. If you’re eligible for Medicare, it may cover a short-term stay in a skilled nursing facility, but it depends on your specific circumstances. If you’re planning on using private insurance for skilled nursing care, the details will depend on your coverage.
Generally, Medicare does not cover long-term care in a nursing home, but Medicaid and long-term care insurance may help with those costs. Medicaid eligibility requirements and coverage vary by state, so make sure you do your research and work with the facility to understand your options.
Talk to a Professional
If you’re still unsure, a primary care physician, hospital discharge planner, or social worker can recommend the most suitable care setting based on your specific needs. Many facilities also offer tours or consultations for prospective residents and family members, which can help you better understand what to expect and the services offered.
If you weigh up skilled nursing vs nursing home care and decide that skilled nursing is the best choice for you, contact our team at Nightingale. We offer high-quality skilled nursing care in a compassionate, community-minded environment.
Give us a call to learn more about Nightingale and our skilled nursing services, or to schedule a tour of our facilities.